Sedona Animal Clinic

100 Posse Ground RoadSedona, AZ 86336

(928)282-4133

www.sedonaanimalclinic.com

Does my pet really need dental care?

Dental health is an important part of your pet’s overall health. Periodontal disease can lead to, or be caused by, other health problems such as kidney, liver, and heart disease. To check for early signs of a problem and to keep your pet’s mouth healthy, we recommend having your pet’s teeth and gums checked at least once a year.

Dental care includes the cleaning, adjustment, filing, extraction, or repair of your pets' teeth and all other aspects of oral health care. The process begins with a physical examination of your pet’s mouth and pre-anesthetic blood work to ensure your pet's safety.

Dental procedures are performed under anesthesia. Anesthesia makes it possible to perform the dental procedures with less stress and pain for your pet. In addition, anesthesia allows for a better radiographs (x-rays) to evaluate the health of the jaw and tooth roots below the gumline, and anesthesia protects your pet from moving around and risking injury from the dental equipment. During the procedure, we perform a thorough dental cleaning including scaling (to remove dental plaque and tartar) and polishing, similar to the process used on your own teeth during your regular dental cleanings.

You can help maintain your pet's dental health at home! Regularly brushing your pet’s teeth is the single most effective thing you can do to keep their teeth healthy between dental cleanings, and regular brushing could reduce the frequency for periodic dental cleaning. Daily brushing is best, but we know it’s not always possible. Most dogs will learn to accept brushing, but cats can be resistant – patience and training are important.

There are many products on the market that claim to improve your pet's dental health, but not all of them are effective. Ask us about any dental products, treats, or dental-specific diets you’re considering. We are happy to help guide you to the ones that may best help your pet in between dental cleanings.